French Broad Cycling Classic starts Friday

Cyclists participating in the Women's Category 3 and 4 division of the Chainheart Cycling Studio Criterium ride through the River Arts District on the last day of the French Broad Cycling Classic in Asheville last year. The race is Friday through Sunday.

The 16th annual French Broad Cycling Classic is Friday through Sunday as part of the inaugural 2013 Southeast Regional Series. The race, sanctioned by USA Cycling and presented by the Asheville Bicycle Racing Club, is a three-day Omnium Stage Race.

Racing starts at 4 p.m. Friday in downtown Marshall with an Individual Time Trial, and continues Saturday morning with a Road Race through the high mountains of Madison County. The weekend culminates with day-long Criterium Racing and Sunday in spectator-friendly Biltmore Park Town Square, with the pro events kicking off in the afternoon.

A free Kids Race will start at 1:30 p.m. Sunday at Biltmore Park, open to ages 3-9. Distances based on age will range from 100 feet to a full .7-mile lap. Bring your own bike and helmet.